| Learn To
Paraphrase
In this handout, we’ll look at how to paraphrase
your sources. A paraphrase is a detailed restatement in your own words
of a written or sometimes spoken passage. Apart from the changes in
organization, wording, and sentence structure, the paraphrase should
be nearly identical in meaning to the original passage.
When do I Paraphrase?
You should consider paraphrasing in the following instances:
- Paraphrase a passage when you want your readers to understand
all of its points. Once the author's ideas are conveyed, you may
then
elaborate on them or present your opinions of the subject.
- Paraphrase
a passage when you are unsure of its meaning. Rewording a complex
writing into simple terms may help you better understand
the content and purpose of the passage.
How do I Paraphrase?
When paraphrasing, follow the guidelines listed below:
- Include all important ideas mentioned in the original passage
but not in the same order.
- Keep the length approximately the same
as the original.
- Do not stress any single point more than another.
- Do not change
the meaning by adding your own thoughts or views.
- Do not use the
original sentence structure.
You may find it helpful to use the following five steps when paraphrasing:
1. Understand the meaning of the passage thoroughly. You may have
to read the passage several times and consult a dictionary.
2. Outline the passage or subdivide the information into smaller
sections. Remember that the paraphrase must include all the important
ideas mentioned in the original passage.
3. Restate the information remembering the following:
1. Replace as many of the words as possible with appropriate synonyms.
Sometimes you may have to substitute a phrase in place of a word,
or a word in place of a phrase. When changing words, keep in mind
that most words have more than one meaning and association. You must
consider the context in which the word is used. Using an inappropriate
synonym may change the entire meaning of the passage. (Dictionaries
are frequently better for this step than thesauruses.)
2. Change the order and structure of the ideas or argument.
3. Change the structure of the sentences. All of us have our own
writing style. Change the sentences to reflect yours. Be careful not
to change the meaning by adding or leaving out any important information.
4. Make sure that you are faithful to the meaning of the source and
that you have accurately represented the main ideas.
5. Cite appropriately and integrate the paraphrase into the text
effectively. Consult the APA or MLA manual or the
Academic
Center’s
Quick Guides for information on how to cite and the Academic Center
handout “Signal
the Use of a Source” for ideas
on how to integrate paraphrased information.
Next, you can
view
one writer's sample paraphrase or you can check
your understanding of this handout by
completing
some paraphrasing exercises.
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